Site Visit to The Stables at Bluemont Vineyard

This weekend I met one of our couples at their venue for a site visit and tasting. They are saying their vows at Bluemont Vineyard this fall and I'm working with none other than Holly Chapple for decor and flowers. Our design for their wedding is pulling plum, browns, and taupe together with gold touches for a rustic elegant event. We're also working to create a huge chandelier from 1000 cranes that the bride is busy working on as we speak. Below are some images I snapped of the stables. It is the largest indoor, climate controlled event space at any of DC's Wine Country Vineyards.  The  6500 square foot former stable has stunning views for both your ceremony and the outdoor cocktail hour on the verandah. The Stable seats up to 250 guests with tenting options to accommodate additional guests and has a recently renovated bridal suite with a private verandah that will be great for photos. My favorite aspect of this venue is it's tall vaulted celling with exposed beams that allow for endless decor possibilities.  

Cami & Mike's E-session @ Barrel Oak Winery with Anne Robert Photography

Remember when I visited Barrel Oak Winery with the dogs? If not you can check out the post here. I love this venue with it's amazing views, loveable mutts running around, and cute fire-pits.  Writing about it makes we want to head out there tomorrow to sip some vino with close friends around a fire!  Amazingly, one of our 2011 couples, Cami and Mike are planning their big day at Airlie Center, but happen to have a close family ties to Barrel Oak. Since they've spent some good times their in the past, it seemed like the ideal place for their engagement shoot with Anne Robert.  

I truly can't express how important engagement sessions are. It's a great time to get to comfortable with your photographer, and learn to let down your hair in front of the camera. Most brides and grooms don't have too much experience in front of the camera, so engagement shoots give you an idea of what to expect from your photographer on your wedding day. After your e-session you should feel more comfortable with them and on the day of the wedding it'll be like they're just one of your friends with a camera.  Last but not least, you're engaged and in love, and you should really capture that special time together in your life. You're only engaged for a short time, cherish it, relax and enjoy the ride.   

Barrel Oak Winery

Last weekend my husband and I, and 2 of our dogs (the lucky ones), got to go with us to Barrel Oak Winery. Barrel oaks' slogan "We're an Hour from Downtown and a World Away", is really a true statement!  I love this winery's setup. It's kid & dog friendly, has fire-pits, picnic tables, and umbrellas spread out all over their hillside so you can relax and enjoy the scenery with a glass of wine. You can bring our own picnic food, buy a chilled bottle of wine, and use their complementary glasses.  They also rent their facilities and offer various vineyard locations where you can hold an outdoor or tented event.  I will definitely be going back soon!